Can anybody differentiate the Embedded apps and Extension-only apps? How can we say that this is an embedded app and this is an extension-only app from the app store? It will be better if you provide real-time example.
Hi @Jay_RW, thank you for posting here!
From my experience, I can clarify to you that:
- Embedded Apps are those that provide a user interface within the Shopify admin. They offer a dedicated space for merchants to interact with the app’s features and functionalities. Essentially, they are standalone applications within the Shopify ecosystem.
- Extension-Only Apps, on the other hand, don’t have a dedicated interface. They function by extending the existing Shopify features through extensions. These are smaller, focused pieces of functionality that integrate seamlessly into the Shopify admin without requiring a separate app page.
How to Differentiate on the App Store
Unfortunately, the Shopify App Store doesn’t currently have a specific label or category to differentiate between embedded apps and extension-only apps. This can make it challenging for merchants to identify the type of app they’re looking for.
However, there are some clues you can look for: - App Description: Pay close attention to the app’s description. If it mentions adding features to specific areas of the Shopify admin (like checkout, product page, or order page), it’s likely an extension-only app. If it talks about providing a complete solution or platform within Shopify, it’s probably an embedded app.
- App Reviews: Sometimes, merchants will mention in their reviews if an app has a dedicated interface or if it functions as an extension.
- App Features: Consider the app’s features. If it offers a complex set of tools or functionalities that require a dedicated interface, it’s likely an embedded app. If it provides a single or limited set of features that can be integrated into existing Shopify pages, it’s probably an extension-only app.
Real-World Examples
While it’s difficult to provide specific examples from the App Store without knowing your exact needs, here are some hypothetical examples:
Embedded App: - Inventory management app: Offers a complete inventory management system with features like stock levels, product variations, and order fulfillment. It would likely have its dedicated interface within the Shopify admin.
- Marketing automation app: Provides a comprehensive suite of marketing tools like email campaigns, SMS marketing, and customer segmentation. It would probably have a dedicated interface for managing these features.
Extension-Only App:
- Product review app: Adds a product review section to product pages.
- Checkout field app: Allows you to add custom fields to the checkout process (like customer phone number or shipping address notes).
- Social sharing buttons app: Adds social sharing buttons to product pages.
Additional Tips: - If you’re unsure about an app, contact the app developer directly for clarification.
- Look for apps that integrate with other tools you use. This can give you a clue about its functionality.
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Hi there,
The main difference is the integration. Embedded apps are integrated within Shopify admin, these apps run directly inside the Shopify admin interface and provide a seamless user experience, it feels like a native part of Shopify.
Examples: Klaviyo: Manages email marketing and SMS campaigns from within Shopify admin.
ReCharge Subscriptions: Sets up and manages subscriptions directly in Shopify.
Regarding the extension-only apps, they are operated externally. These apps often require external tools or interfaces and may not integrate directly into Shopify admin and provide additional features through APIs or custom interfaces.
Examples: Google Channel: Syncs products with Google Shopping but manages ad campaigns through Google Ads.
How to Identify:
Embedded App: Look for phrases like “seamless integration with Shopify admin” and screenshots showing the app within Shopify admin.
Extension-Only App: Descriptions mentioning external management, API usage, and screenshots of non-Shopify interfaces.
Hello @JuneN
Shopify Docs gives examples of the Review app as an extension-only app. However, we can see that the Review app runs inside the Shopify admin seamlessly. So that is why I’m confused between the two. Do you know any example of the extension-only app from the app store?
Hello @WizzCommerce_Co ,
You are saying that embedded apps provide a user interface inside the Shopify admin then the review app should fall under embedded apps but as per your example it is not.